With the beloved Pirate Ship ride at Auckland's Rainbow's End set to say goodbye, Seven Sharp's Lucas De Jong attempted to ride the attraction fondly known as Esmerelda for the full 30 minute duration of the show.

Chief executive Chris Deere wouldn't say what is replacing the ride, but said it would be something that the park didn't already have.
Source: Seven Sharp

While performing this admirable task Lucas was joined on the ride by Rainbow's End CEO Chris Deere to find out what exciting new attraction which will take the old ship's place.

"Something exciting and technological that is geared toward the teenage market, it'll be a covered attraction," Mr Deere said.

While he wouldn't be drawn on what exactly the attraction would be he did say: "It'll be something we don't currently have in our attraction mix and it'll be unique to Rainbow's End."

When asked what will become of the iconic pirate ship Mr Deere said they planned on pulling it apart and recycling it. He also noted there had been interest from people wanting to save the old ship so they will keep an open mind.

Those wanting a final ride on Esmerelda need to head down to Rainbow's End by August 19.